Upgraded Highlights of Thailand

This trip is jam-packed with the wonders of northern Thailand, making for a truly unforgettable adventure. Start things off by taking a dip in turquoise waters below a seven-tiered waterfall, then walk the grounds of Ayutthaya Historical Park. Next, venture into the lively markets of Chiang Mai in search of ingredients for a traditional meal you’ll learn to cook with the help of local residents. The adventure continues on as you discover Buddhist temples, vast mountain landscapes, and the friendliest of people on this tour that showcases what life in Thailand is truly all about.

Day 1 Bangkok
Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Bangkok/Kanchanaburi
In the morning transfer to the city of Kanchanaburi, at the convergence of the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai Rivers. Journey by train across the bridge on the River Kwai and then visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre to learn about the history surrounding the Burma Railway. Afterwards, the group will visit the nearby Kanchanaburi War Cemetery.

Day 3 Kanchanaburi/Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Stretch those legs this morning on a hike into the fertile landscapes of Erawan National Park in the Tenasserim Hills. Enjoy a quick swim in the turquoise pools of Erawan Falls. In the afternoon, travel to the historic city of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya where the group will try some traditional Thai dishes for dinner on a rice barge from the 1930s that has been converted into a restaurant.

Day 4 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya/Chiang Mai
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Ayutthaya Historical Park where you will be able to walk down well-planned city streets to see beautiful palaces and Buddhist monasteries that inspired Thai architecture for years to come. After spending some time here, return to Bangkok where the group will board a flight to Chiang Mai. Dinner will be enjoyed at a traditional village in the countryside. It will be khantok-style and served on low pedestal trays.

Day 5 Chiang Mai
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Chiang Mai’s morning markets. You’ll be with a local chef during your time there and will learn about Thai cuisine as you select ingredients for an included cooking class. For lunch the group will eat what they made during the class and will visit a historic temple together. Then, meet with one of the resident monks to learn about life in the temple. From there, listen to the chanting of monks at Wat Phra That Doi Sethep temple.

Day 6 Chiang Mai
The day is yours. Check out Chiang Mai’s temples and choose from a variety of optional activities to fill your time. Maybe travel the rural lanes of the city in a tuk-tuk, or choose to take a cycling tour through rice paddies and the historic district. After dark, opt to visit Chiang Mai’s bustling night market.

Day 7 Chiang Mai/Bangkok
Fly to Bangkok in the morning and hop on a traditional klong boat to ride through the winding canals. Stop for a visit to Wat Pho, the largest and oldest temple complex in Bangkok. See the grand statue of the Reclining Buddha and simply enjoy your surroundings.

Day 8 Bangkok
Depart at any time.